New findings shed light on a troubling workplace culture within the Durham Regional Police Service (DRPS) in Southern Ontario. An investigation by the Ontario Civilian Police Commission (OCPC) has unveiled a toxic work environment characterized by harassment and management antagonism toward officers seeking mental health support. The OCPC report details significant failures in addressing these issues.
Investigation Findings: A Poisoned Work Environment
Records obtained through a freedom of information request indicate that the workplace culture at DRPS created a “poisoned work environment.” Investigators confirmed allegations of harassment, emphasizing that policies guiding investigations were often compromised by bias and poor record-keeping.
Key Allegations and Report Details
The OCPC conducted its investigation in May 2019, prompted by complaints made by current and former officers, including allegations of favoritism and criminal activities at high levels. The report, finalized in July 2023, relied on interviews with approximately 80 witnesses.
- Complainants: Four current or former DRPS members raised serious concerns.
- Length of Investigation: The investigation began in 2018, with ongoing allegations dating back over a decade.
- Financial Implications: The DRPS and its board reportedly spent around $2 million on legal expenses related to the investigation.
DRPS Chief Peter Moreira stated that while the findings reflect past leadership, his team is committed to addressing the report’s recommendations.
Allegations of Harassment and Misconduct
The report outlines specific issues, including:
- Inadequate scrutiny of senior officer hiring practices.
- Lack of independence in investigations related to workplace harassment, violence, and sexual misconduct.
- Evidence of intimidation and dismissive attitudes towards mental health issues.
It also highlights how perceived favoritism and cronyism affected DRPS operations, impacting officer morale and workplace trust.
Challenges Facing Officers with PTSD
The report addresses the handling of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) claims made by first responders. Although legislation intended to ease access to mental health support was introduced in 2016, the DRPS reportedly opposed many claims for presumptive PTSD, resulting in numerous appeals.
Investigation findings suggest a significant disconnect between the intended supportive measures and the real experiences of DRPS members dealing with mental health challenges.
Future Steps and Recommendations
Among the OCPC recommendations are calls for improved accountability and transparency within the DRPS. Specific suggestions include:
- Creating policies to protect those reporting misconduct from retaliation.
- Reforming the promotion process to ensure merit-based decisions.
- Implementing recording procedures for investigations conducted by designated authorities.
The report remains heavily redacted, with details about severe misconduct still concealed. The complainants’ lawyer has only received a censored version and continues to advocate for greater transparency on behalf of his clients.
As the DRPS embarks on a path of reform, the importance of addressing these systemic issues becomes crucial for restoring trust within the community it serves.
